Economic Recovery (Urban and Rural Livelihoods) Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a prominent protection agency established to safeguard, advocate for, and promote sustainable solutions for populations affected by displacement. Since its inception, DRC has been actively operating in Ukraine since 2014, responding to the needs of those impacted by conflict and displacement. The organization currently employs over 800 staff members in Ukraine and is poised to expand its operations in 2024 to enhance emergency responses across various sectors, including Protection, Livelihoods, Shelter/NFIs, and Humanitarian Disarmament and Peacebuilding. DRC's approach involves direct interventions, support to duty bearers, and partnerships with civil society organizations (CSOs), adapting its durable solutions portfolio to meet the evolving context of the region.

Job Overview:
The Economic Recovery Officer (Urban and Rural Livelihoods) plays a crucial role in implementing economic recovery activities aimed at supporting vulnerable populations in both urban and rural settings. This position is guided by the job description, standard operating procedures (SOP), and the regulations of the DRC's Representative Office in Ukraine. Reporting to the Economic Recovery Team Leader, the officer will engage in various activities, including providing cash assistance to small-scale farmers, facilitating vocational training, and offering grant and capacity-building support to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and agri-businesses. The role requires close collaboration with communities, local authorities, and CSOs to identify vulnerable individuals, conduct service mapping, and disseminate information about available services. The position is based in the DRC Kharkiv office, with field activities extending across Kharkiv Oblast and Slovyansk, necessitating a proactive approach to community engagement and project implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Economic Recovery Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including conducting needs assessments to inform project design and implementation, participating in project proposal development, and supporting project initiation through operational briefings. The officer will also be responsible for implementing daily activities according to the operational schedule, maintaining documentation and Means of Verification (MoVs), and ensuring compliance with data protection standards. Additionally, the officer will contribute to project closure by archiving MoVs and sharing lessons learned. Specific tasks include conducting market assessments, beneficiary identification and registration, preparing payment documentation, and ensuring accessibility for vulnerable groups. The officer will also coordinate internally with colleagues across sectors and externally with local authorities and other stakeholders to facilitate effective project implementation and service delivery.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, agri-business, rural development, economics, business administration, vocational education, or a related field. Relevant professional experience may be accepted in lieu of a degree. A strong understanding of confidentiality and humanitarian ethics, including PSEA, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage vulnerable populations and diverse stakeholders effectively. Strong organizational and time-management skills are necessary, along with proficiency in MS Office applications and standard email systems.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as agriculture, agri-business, rural development, economics, business administration, or vocational education. In cases where candidates have substantial relevant professional experience, this may be accepted as a substitute for formal educational qualifications. A solid understanding of humanitarian ethics and confidentiality is also expected.

Experience:
A minimum of 2 years of experience in livelihoods, economic recovery, business development, vocational training, employment services, or similar community economic projects is required. Experience working with conflict-affected populations and in emergency settings is highly desirable. Candidates should possess strong organizational, analytical, and interpersonal skills, along with the ability to communicate effectively and empathetically with individuals in distress.

Languages:
Fluency in Ukrainian is mandatory, and candidates should have an intermediate level of English proficiency. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not required for this position.

Additional Notes:
The contract length includes a 3-month probation period, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability and performance. The position is classified under Band H, and the duty station is Kharkiv. The anticipated start date for this role is January 202

• Salary and conditions will align with the Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for National Staff, and further details can be found on the organization's website. Applicants are required to submit a cover letter and an updated CV in English, with a maximum length of four pages. Applications sent via email will not be considered. The closing date for applications is set for 13 December 2025, and candidates are encouraged to apply promptly, as interviews may be conducted on a rolling basis. DRC reserves the right to select a candidate before the vacancy closes if a suitable candidate is identified.